Updated Unallowables for Moving with a Moving Specialist

Keeping you up to speed with the information you need for a smooth and hassle-free move is part of our Armbruster Moving & Storage proven approach. We're a proud partner with Mayflower, and they have specific guidelines to make sure everyone stays safe and to ensure the safe journey of your belongings. Here's an updated list of non-allowable items you should be aware of for local or long-distance moving:

Prep For Your Move and Work Smarter: Not Harder

This is the advice we give to all of our movers, whether it's their first move or they are seasoned packers.

1. Pack a special box for your first night in the new place: Pack the essentials for your first couple of days to allow for unpacking time with things like small hand tools, towels, toiletries, and bedding. You want to avoid being stuck searching through boxes and not having easy access.
2. Check for Special Handling Needs: Long-distance and local movers for high-value artwork, exercise equipment, and saunas may require special arrangements. Make sure to contact a specialist to talk about your moving needs.

Items Best Transported Personally

We always recommend that you move these items yourself for a couple of reasons: They are irreplaceable or sentimental and safest in your hands, or they are an immediate necessity.

• Medications: Prescription drugs or over-the-counter medicines you might need.
• Seasonal and Fragile Items: Keep in mind the season and climate conditions, especially for items sensitive to extreme temperatures or humidity. Electronics, certain liquids, or items prone to warping or melting might be better transported under your control or with specialized transport.
• Sentimental and Personal Items: Think photo albums, heirlooms, jewelry, and children's artwork.
• Electronics: Mobile phones, laptops, and other small devices you'll want quick access to.
• Important Documents: Passports, IDs, checkbooks, titles, and any essential files.
• Cash 

Restricted Items: Allowed with Conditions

These are the conditional items: Armbruster Moving & Storage has extensive capabilities for local and long-distance moving. Check through the list below and make sure to get in touch with a moving specialist before you book your move:

• Alcoholic Beverages: Sealed containers of alcohol can be included, but the temperature during transit should be considered, as it can affect the quality. Additionally, some states may have specific import regulations.
• Fish Tanks: Fish tanks may be included only if they are empty.
• Lithium-Ion Powered Devices: For devices powered by lithium-ion batteries, remove the batteries, cover the terminals, and transport them separately.
• Clean Fuel Containers: While discouraged, clean, empty fuel containers without residual odors can be included.
• Firearms: You may include firearms, but they must be unloaded, declared, and documented.

Prohibited Items: Absolutely Not Allowed

You've made it to the absolute no's of our list; we can't move any of these items for safety purposes and to follow industry rules and regulations. If you have questions about these items, please check our FAQ page.

• Compressed Gas Cylinders: Propane tanks, fire extinguishers, and oxygen tanks are restricted. Senior movers should be aware of this when moving medical equipment.
• Household Cleaning Products: Any products containing harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach are a no-go.
• Corrosive Chemicals and Poisons: Common items like drain cleaners, flea powder, and pool chemicals fall under this category.
• Lawn and Garden Chemicals: Pesticides, fertilizers, and weed killers can't be included.
• Flammables and Explosives: Matches, fireworks, lighters, and road flares are strictly prohibited.
• Batteries: Both alkaline and lead-acid (like car batteries) are restricted. If you're moving items with removable batteries, such as remotes or toys, take out the batteries. Lithium-ion batteries, however, can be transported with proper preparation.
• Illegal Items or Substances: Any items prohibited by state or federal laws are off-limits.
• Aerosol Cans: Items such as hairspray, cooking sprays, and insect repellents often contain flammable gases and are not allowed.
• Gas and Oil Products: This includes gasoline, kerosene, diesel fuel, lighter fluids, and even hand sanitizers with isopropyl alcohol.
• Ammunition and Firearms: Ammunition cannot be transported, though unloaded firearms may be included with proper documentation.

Our goal is to make your move, whether it be your home or your company property, as safe and efficient as possible. We have years of experience when it comes to industrial machinery and lab equipment, and you can take the stress out of your move by working closely with our moving company every step of the way. Reach out to a member of our team today to learn more about how we get people and companies moving.